(WTNH) — Halloween is right around the corner and keeping your kids from eating too many sweets is a big concern.

Nutritionist Wendy Battles says this year, it’s a good idea to start Halloween in the kitchen because it falls on a Saturday.

“Little kids, they love to help out in the kitchen and with all of these being Halloween themed, it’s keeping with the day. Start early in the afternoon,” said Battles.

She brought several different healthy treats into News 8 from a hand made of carrots raised up in hummus, to clementine and celery pumpkins, to ghosts made of banana and chocolate chips. She said it’s important to make sure kid’s stomachs are full before they head out trick-or-treating.

Battles says after Halloween parents really need to take charge.

“Perhaps, going through and getting rid of things you’re not such a fan of. Go through the bucket with them and take things out,” said Battles.

She said parents should also then hold on to the trick-or-treat bags.

Battles says use the days after Halloween as a reward and allow your kids to have a few small pieces a day of the candies they love.

“I know that when we get into things that have caramel and nuts they have more calories and fat,” said Battles.

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